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Radiation Free 3D Optical Topographic Image-Guided Navigation for Spine Surgery-A Cadaveric Study
Josh E Schroeder1, Joseph Weinstein2, Tushal Patel3
1Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem Israel.
Study Design:
This study represents a preclinical cadaveric study using a optic 3D spine navigation system.
Objectives:
In this study, our objective is to evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of real-time imaging and navigation for thoracolumbar pedicle screw placement in 8 cadavers using optical imaging technology, employing the PathKeeper System, a 3D spine navigation system.
Summary Of Background Data:
To evaluate the feasibility of the optic navigation system, 90 pedicle screws were placed in 8 cadavers using the system. Real-time tracking was monitored throughout the screw placement process.
Methods:
This preclinical study utilized AI-driven, radiation-free real-time optical navigation to guide pedicle screw placement in the thoracolumbar spine of 8 cadavers. To assess the system's real-time tracking resistance to spinal motion, the cadavers were repositioned to alter the conditions between vertebrae, and extensive dissection and spinal osteotomies were performed throughout the procedure. The accuracy of screw placement, assessed using the Gertzbein-Robbins scale, was confirmed by an independent radiologist through postoperative CT imaging.
Results:
Placement of 90 pedicle screws between T1 and L5 vertebrae was achieved by 5 different surgeons using the optic imaging system. The accuracy rate of pedicle screw placement using real-time tracking and imaging across the full range of lumbar and lower thoracic vertebrae was 100% in all cases, including for surgeons without prior experience with use of the navigation system. Postoperative CT verification by an independent radiologist confirmed that 100% of the screws in all cases were positioned with Gertzbein-Robbins grades of A or B.
Conclusion:
PathKeeper optical spine navigation system demonstrated both feasibility and 100% accuracy in the placement of 90 pedicle screws in 8 cadavers. The system's user-friendly surgery planning software also supports a swift learning curve. Optical navigation, an emerging new technology may provide a safe radiation free spine surgery solution.
